Waheeda Rehman urges calm amid debate over AR Rahman’s communal remark

Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman has shared a measured response to the controversy surrounding Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman’s recent remarks about his work opportunities in Bollywood. 

Speaking in an interview with SCREEN, Waheeda called for calm and urged people not to read too much into the issue, emphasising peace and perspective over controversy.

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“These Small Things Happen Everywhere”

Reacting to Rahman’s statement, Waheeda said she prefers to stay away from such debates. “Yes, I read about it, but I try to dig less into it. I prefer not to pay attention to it when everything is going fine. These small things happen in every country,” she said.

The actor further questioned the need to get deeply involved in such matters. “So, what to believe and how much to believe? If it’s even true or not. Why should we get involved? At least at my age, I don’t want to get involved with anything or anybody,” she added. Summing up her view, Waheeda said, “Apni shaanti se raho, yeh mulk hai humaara, bas khush raho.”

Work Has Ups and Downs, Says Waheeda

Waheeda also suggested that Rahman’s reduced presence in Hindi cinema could be linked to changing times rather than religion. “Kaam toh upar neeche hota hi rehta hai. Ek umar ke baad, log kehte hain bring somebody new or different,” she explained, pointing out that industries naturally evolve and make space for newer talent.

She added that even those who reach great heights cannot remain at the same position forever. “Upar neeche hota hi rehta hai, aisi koi nayi baat nahi hai,” she said, stressing that fluctuations in work are common and not unusual.

What AR Rahman Had Said

In an earlier interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman spoke about challenges he faced as a Tamil composer in Bollywood, saying that a power shift over the past eight years might have affected opportunities and that it “might be a communal thing also,” though not directly evident.

Also Read: ‘India is my inspiration, my home...’: AR Rahman strikes a different chord after Bollywood ‘communal’ remark, watch

Rahman’s Clarification

Following criticism, Rahman released a video clarifying his remarks. He said India is his home and inspiration, and that he never intended to hurt sentiments. “My purpose has always been to uplift, honour and serve through music,” he said, hoping his sincerity would be understood.